IdiomBody & Senses
English
Englishnot believe one's ears
Meaning: To be so surprised by what one hears that it seems impossible.
Example: “When the principal announced a four-day week, the students couldn't believe their ears.”
Origin: A natural expression of disbelief, recorded in English from the early 17th century.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Ne pas en croire ses oreilles Literally: To not be able to believe one's ears
More English idioms
- the knives are out People are openly hostile and ready to attack someone, usually to bring them down.
- cross the Rubicon To take an irreversible step.
- like a bear with a sore head In a very bad, irritable mood.
- lay it on with a trowel To flatter or exaggerate very heavily and without subtlety.
- burst someone's bubble To destroy someone's illusion or happy belief.
- prick up one's ears To suddenly start listening closely.
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